What Should You Know About Purchasing Safe Dog Toys?

With so many different types of dog toys on the market today, it’s no wonder that choosing the perfect toy for our canine companion can be an overwhelming experience. Millions of dog toys are purchased each year, with most purchases taking place during the holidays.
Unfortunately, most dog toys are produced overseas, usually in China. It’s not recommended to purchase dog toys that were made in China because of the high levels of lead, chromium and cadmium they contain. The paint, rubber, latex and stuffing that are used to make these toys could all be toxic.
There are currently no guidelines for the amount of lead considered to be safe in dog toys. However, due to the fact that dogs lick, chew and swallow their toys, dogs can still become quite ill while playing with them, even if they contain much lower levels of lead than the amount that’s considered to be safe.
It’s our government’s responsibility to screen imported products prior to them entering our country instead of after they’ve already been added to the store shelves. Our government should be looking out for our pets and not doing anything that could possibly hurt them. Also, the companies that purchase these products from overseas could always conduct their own screening to make sure they’re safe, but most don’t want to pay the cost.
China recently signed an agreement with the U.S. that prohibits them from using lead paint on their products. Even after they signed this agreement, it’s still hard to believe what their labels say because of all the past pet food recalls. To save money, the U.S. has allowed manufacturing jobs to relocate overseas and we pet owners are paying the price because dangerous products are coming into our country and harming our pets.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from lead poisoning, take him to the vet ASAP to have blood work done and to receive a full check up.
Symptoms of lead poisoning include:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Loss of Appetite
Lethargy
Abnormal Behavior
Precautions you should take before purchasing toys for your dog include:
Avoid painted toys because they contain the highest levels of lead. These toys are usually made from latex, plastic and vinyl.
Only purchase brand name toys.
Make sure there’s a proof of safety on the toy’s package.
Only purchase toys that were manufactured in the U.S., and from a reputable company that you trust.
Only purchase toys that are sold exclusively at pet supply stores, not grocery stores.
If your dog currently has any toys that were manufactured outside of the U.S., throw them away immediately. Even if your dog has any toys that you’re uncertain of, toss them. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Keep in mind that making your own dog toys is a safer alternative than purchasing them. Just make sure you know what’s in the different pieces that you’ll be using to make the toy.
Remember to always do thorough research before purchasing anything for your dog, especially toys. Their health depends on it.